Relic Intro Guide

In Slay the Spire 2, your deck provides the options, but your Relics provide the power. Relics are permanent artifacts that grant passive buffs, extra energy, or unique combat triggers that last for the duration of your run.

While many ‘basic’ Relics can be found by any class, each character has a pool specifically designed to enhance their unique mechanics, from the Ironclad’s strength-scaling to the Regent’s cosmic stars.

The Lifecycle of a Relic

Starter Relics

Every character begins on floor 1 with a Starter Relic. These are the most reliable tools in your arsenal.

• The Ironclad: Burning Blood - At the end of combat, heal 6 HP.
• The Silent: Ring of the Snake - At the start of each combat, draw 2 additional cards.
• The Regent: Divine Right - At the start of each combat, gain 3 Stars.
• The Necrobinder: Bound Phylactery - At the start of your turn, Summon 1. (This means you either resurrect your companion, Osty, at 1HP or add 1 max health to it.)
• The Defect: Cracked Core - At the start of each combat, Channel 1 Lightning.

Upgraded Starter Relics

One of the most pivotal moments in any Slay the Spire 2 run is encountering Oraos the Ancient. This event offers you the chance to transform your Starter Relic into an Upgraded Relic. These "evolved" versions significantly boost your base powers.

• The Ironclad: Black Blood - At the end of combat, heal 12 HP.
• The Silent: Ring of the Drake - At the start of your first 3 turns, draw 2 additional cards.
• The Regent: Divine Destiny - At the start of each combat, gain 6 Stars.
• The Necrobinder: Phylactery Unbound - At the start of each combat, Summon 5. At the start of your turn, Summon 2.
• The Defect: Infused Core - At the start of each combat, Channel 3 Lightning.

Slay the Spire 2 Relic Rarities and How to Find Them

New Relics in Slay the Spire 2

Though the game is still in early access at the time of writing this guide, Slay the Spire 2 already offers a huge selection of fun new Relics to play around with. We've listed a few examples for you below, but be sure to check out our complete Relics list for a deep dive.

• Demon Tongue - The first time you lose HP on your turn, heal HP equal to the amount lost. (Exclusive to Ironclad)
• Helical Dart - Whenever you play a Shiv, gain 1 Dexterity this turn. (Exclusive to Silent)
• Gorget - At the start of each combat, gain 4 Plating.
• Toy Box - Upon pickup, obtain 4 Wax Relics. Every 3 combats, your left-most Wax Relic will melt away.
• History Course - At the start of your turn, play a copy of your last played Attack or Skill.

Strategy: Building Around Your Artifacts

Your Relics should dictate your deck, not the other way around. A common mistake is drafting cards you hope to find synergies for later. Do the opposite. If you pick up a Paper Phrog (which boosts Vulnerable damage) early in Act 1, your entire drafting priority should shift toward cards like Bash or Tremble.

The "Shop" Rule in Slay the Spire 2

Shops are the only place where you can check and evaluate a Relic before you earn it. Always try to enter a Merchant room with at least 150–250 gold. Buying a build-defining Rare Relic is often worth more than buying three or four mediocre cards.

You can learn more about Relics in Flare's video below, a former collegiate Hearthstone player, now roguelike content creator.